Met Éireann gets approval for new weather radar
Met Éireann has received approval to build a new weather radar station in Meath, as part of its plan to expand Ireland’s national radar network
The approved development in Ardanew, Longwood, includes a 36-metre-high galvanised steel tower topped with a radome, a weatherproof dome that protects radar equipment while allowing radio waves to pass through, and a base-level equipment room.
The 8-metre-diameter radome will be built on a hardcore platform, with a new access road off an existing forest haul road widened to 3.8 metres where required.
The project also includes a 24-panel solar array, boundary fencing, and all associated site works and services.
Significant revised plans and additional information were submitted during the planning process, which was approved by Meath County Council on February 23, 2026.
Met Éireann is currently expanding its National Weather Radar Network to improve rainfall monitoring and forecasting accuracy.
The Meath radar is one of five new stations planned over the coming years, with additional sites proposed in Roscommon, Cork, Donegal, and Kilkenny.